I haven’t said because I don’t know.
The next step is Initial Operating Experience (IOE). This is where I go fly a real CRJ-900 with real passengers in the back, but with an “IOE Check Airman” qualified Captain. Since I’ve never actually flown the plane, the FAA requires that I spend at least 25 hours on IOE. I’m required to demonstrate certain items, and the Captain will sign off my folder after each flight. After the check airman thinks that I’ve got a handle on things, he’ll sign me off, and I’ll be a “normal” first officer.
I hope I get called soon for a couple of reasons. One of them is 14 CFR §121.434 which says that I have to fly 100 hours in the airplane within 120 days of completing my Proficiency Check (the checkride I just passed). So if I don’t get 100 hours by August 27, then I’m going to have to go take the checkride again. I’m not anticipating that this will be an issue, but given the glacial pace of my training so far, who knows.
In other news, Mesa has settled the lawsuit with Hawaiian. I’m not sure if that’s good or bad, but I do find it a bit surprising. Mesa Air Group’s stock is back up to around $1/share today, which is an improvement.
The big worry is the Delta issue, and we won’t know anything about that until the end of the month. I’m not sure how it will affect me or Mesa, but if they lose the contract, it won’t be good.
My best guess for when I’ll actually get to fly is probably first week of June, given how long it’s taken folks in my class so far, but that’s purely wild speculation on my part. They could call me tomorrow or wait until July.
In the mean time, I’m back in Colorado playing Scrabble on Facebook…